Best Practices for Effective Boards Book

Introduction 5

1 "Ears In, Fingers Out" 9

Best Practice: Board members understand the role, purpose, and function of the board.

2 Mission, Vision, and Values Drive Us 20

Best Practice: Board members know, communicate, and make decisions in light of the organization's mission, vision, and values.

3 Think Questions 32

Best Practice: Board members ask the right questions.

4 Write It Down 47

Best Practice: Board members understand and embrace a board policy manual that contains the board-approved policies for effective and efficient governance of the organization.

5 Watch Your Words 57

Best Practice: Board members communicate with each other and address conflict situations as Christians.

6 Strong Boards Empower Effective Leaders 70

Best Practice: Board members relate to their leaders and constituency with one voice.

7 Integrity Matters 80

Best Practice: Board members intentionally engage in mutual accountability, including systematic board development and evaluation.

8 Take Time 92

Best Practice: Board members take time to process decisions, with no intentional surprises.

9 Yes! to Missional Change 102

Best Practice: Board members embrace change and resolve to work through transitions together and unite for the good of the Kingdom and the advancement of God's mission.

10 Review/Revise/Redirect/Renew 115

Best Practice: Board members participate in assessing the effectiveness of prior decisions and collectively make appropriate adjustments.

11 Role Models of Generosity and Stewardship 127

Best Practice: Board members are outstanding examples of giving regularly and sacrificially to the church, college, or organization they serve.

12 Pass It On 141

Best Practice: Board members develop new leaders throughout the region for increased responsibilities and commitment to the organization.

Postscript 153

Appendix 1 For This We Stand 155

Appendix 2 Leader Effectiveness Review 157

Appendix 3 Leader Effectiveness Review Competency Grid 162

Appendix 4 Board Standing Policy Manual 165

Appendix 5 On Caring Enough to Confront 174

Appendix 6 Rules of the Road for Christlike Communication 177

Appendix 7 Rules of the Road for Christlike Conflict Management 178

Appendix 8 Rules of Engagement 180

Appendix 9 Board Survey 183

Appendix 10 Action Plan for Local Innovation 187

Appendix 11 Moving College Governance from Good to Great 190